Michael Jackson's death prompts reflection on historic music career

AP Photo/Lennox McLendonMichael Jackson dead at age 50: In this Dec. 1, 1984, file photo, Michael Jackson, is shown onstage at opening night of his Victory Tour at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.

Michael Jackson, the once triumphant, then disgraced King of Pop, died today at the age of 50, after suffering a heart attack.

When the world first heard Michael Jackson, it heard a voice so confident and commanding it seemed impossible that it was coming from a boy.

AP Photo, fileIn this 1972 photo, Michael Jackson at age 13, the youngest member of the singing group Jackson Five, sings in his home in Encino, Ca.

Years later, the world marveled at how childish a grown man could be.

His was a life of the highest highs, including Motown Era glory with his family group the Jackson 5, and the release of an album, "Thriller," as captivating as any that came before or after.

His was a life of the lowest lows, including accusations of child abuse, an obsession with plastic surgery that ultimately left him looking inhuman, and the squandering of a once-daunting fortune.

John Landis, who directed Jackson in the iconic "Thriller" video described the singer as "an extraordinary talent and a truly great international star."

"I was lucky enough to know and work with Michael Jackson in his prime," Landis said, in a statement via his attorney. "He had a troubled and complicated life and despite his gifts, remains a tragic figure. My wife Deborah and I will always have great affection for him."

At the time of his death, he was planning a comeback via a series of shows in London's O2 Arena. His 50 shows there were sold out.

"We've lost a giant," said Jersey-based concert promoter John Scher, who produced three Jackson family "Victory Tour" concerts at Giants Stadium in 1984, as well as other Jackson concerts. "He was really part of the fabric of modern American pop. And we all saw him grow up in front of our eyes: It's rare that you see a child actor or, in this case, a child performer, grow up and then take the enormous leap he took, when he went solo."

Scher said that he, like many in the music industry, never got to know Jackson personally.

"It was always very secretive, whenever you dealt with him," says Scher. "You couldn't get anywhere near Michael Jackson or, to a large degree, any of his family, any of the inner sanctum."

Throughout the music industry, those who knew Jackson expressed sadness at the news.

"I am absolutely devastated at this tragic and unexpected news," the music producer Quincy Jones said in a statement read by MSNBC. Mr. Jones said Mr. Jackson "had it all -- talent, grace, professionalism and dedication." Mr. Jones said added, "I've lost my little brother today, and part of my soul has gone with him."

"The entire Apollo family is saddened to learn of Michael Jackson's untimely passing," said Jonelle Procope, President & CEO, The Apollo Theater Foundation, Inc. "Michael first performed at the Apollo in 1969 with his brothers when he was only nine years old, winning Amateur Night, and catapulting their career as the Jackson 5. We will always remember Michael in our hearts as a true Apollo legend, known for his professionalism and grace. Our sympathy goes out to his entire family. He will be deeply missed.